Austerity should not undermine cultural traditions, tourism, says S’wak activist

KUCHING (March 112): Government austerity measures aimed at reducing spending should not come at the expense of cultural traditions, community activities and tourism that support local livelihoods, said Sarawak social and human rights activist Peter John Jaban.

He said efforts to exercise fiscal prudence must focus on reducing wasteful and unnecessary expenditure, rather than limiting meaningful cultural and community programmes that play an important role in the state’s social and economic life.

“Austerity should be about eliminating wastage and unnecessary expenditure, not suppressing meaningful community and economic activities,” he told The Borneo Post.

His remarks came following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s directive for government departments, agencies and government-linked companies (GLCs) to practise austerity by limiting official festive celebrations amid global economic uncertainties.

While acknowledging the need for prudent financial management, Peter John said such measures should be implemented carefully to avoid affecting important cultural and tourism-related events.

“In Sarawak, festive activities such as the Niti Daun procession, Gawai Dayak bazaars, and open houses during Gawai Dayak and Hari Raya Aidilfitri serve purposes beyond ceremonial celebrations,” he said.

He noted that these events provide important economic opportunities for small traders, food vendors, cultural performers and tourism operators who depend on festive seasons to generate income.

According to him, the celebrations also play a vital role in showcasing Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage while strengthening the state’s appeal as a tourism destination.

Peter John cautioned that cancelling such events entirely could send the wrong signal at a time when Sarawak is actively promoting its cultural identity and tourism sector.

“At a time when Sarawak is positioning itself as a unique tourism destination, cancelling these events could undermine local economic opportunities,” he said.

He added that Sarawak’s long-standing open house traditions during major festivals reflect the spirit of inclusiveness and mutual respect that define the state’s multicultural society.

“Austerity should be about eliminating wastage and unnecessary expenditure, not about suppressing meaningful community and economic activities,” he reiterated.

Peter John also urged policymakers to recognise that cultural celebrations in Sarawak are closely linked to livelihoods, tourism growth and social unity.

“Preserving these traditions while exercising fiscal prudence would be a far more sensible and balanced approach,” he said.

“In challenging economic times, policymakers must ensure that efforts to control spending do not come at the expense of cultural and economic activities that sustain local communities.”